Lenten Regulations and Resources from the Archdiocese

The Church has always helped us fulfill these words of Jesus by prescribing very definite penance for all Catholics, so that we too might have Eternal life.  Accordingly, the Pope and the American Bishops have outlined obligatory fast and abstinence as follows:
 
Ash Wednesday (Wednesday March 1, 2017) and Good Friday (April 14, 2017) are days of abstinence for all Catholics over the age of 14.  On these two days, fast, as well as abstinence, is also obligatory for those from the ages of 18-59.  Abstinence means refraining from meat.  Fast means one full meal a day, with two smaller meals and nothing between meals (liquids are permitted).  No Catholic will lightly excuse himself or herself from this obligation.
 
All Fridays in Lent are days of abstinence from meat.  Here again Catholics will not hold themselves lightly excused, but if there is a serious health problem, this obligation would not apply.
 
We should strive to make all days of Lent a time of prayer and penance. Following are several resources that can aid in finding different forms of prayer and penance.
 

 ·    Living the Eucharist Lenten program:  

http://www.livingtheeucharist.org/

·    Best Lent Ever daily reflections from Dynamic Catholic:

http://dynamiccatholic.com/bestlentever/#signup

·    USCCB:  

http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year/lent/prayer-resources- for-lent.cfm

 
Please also take the time to visit  http://www.archstl.org/bible to follow the events surrounding The Saint John’s Bible in St. Louis for the year.
 
Lent is a Season of reflection, penance, fasting, and service.  May the Lord strengthen you as you continue to share this message with your parishioners. Be assured of my prayers for both you and the people in your parish throughout this Lenten Season and the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy.